The nearly century-old Chicago Urban League hosted its 50th Golden Fellowship Dinner on Saturday night, celebrating at the Chicago Hilton with yellow roses, a sparkling gold carpet (rather than the traditional red), and an all-star cast of business people and politicians.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle were among the elected officials in attendance. Many stayed for dinner and to witness James Compton, Chicago Urban League executive director from 1972 to 1978 and president and CEO from 1978 to 2006, receive the Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights Award.

“He is so kind, so smart, he has such quiet confidence, but do not let that fool you,” said Mellody Hobson, gala co-chair and president, Ariel Investments LLC, as she presented the award to Mr. Compton. “He fights for what he believes in.”

“It feels like a homecoming,” Mr. Compton said, accepting the award. In closing, he delivered the familiar “no man is an island” quote from English poet John Donne.

While the 1,600 revelers quieted for Mr. Compton, the festivity level before dinner bordered on raucous, with host Steve Harvey pleading for order. “You are very honored to have me here,” the comedian joked, setting aside a prepared script for a freewheeling, and funny, standup routine.

A video chronicling Chicago Urban League’s history and a rousing speech from Andrea Zopp, Chicago Urban League president and CEO, brought gala-goers to their feet. “Despite all the progress, African-Americans still lag in several areas,” Ms. Zopp said, pointing out education as a major one.

Later, Ms. Zopp told the crowd that the gala was $75,000 short of its $2-million fundraising goal, then asked for pledges via text message. Guests responded with $2,885 in donations.

The gala grossed an estimated $1.95 million to fund Chicago Urban League programs.

Society’s hibernating until spring, but the parties keep rolling. Here’s what’s on for the rest of the year. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year.

May 15, 2014

A lotta night music: That's what Mozart might have called Merit School of Music's 35th anniversary celebration, held May 8 at the Palmer House Hilton. From cocktails through dinner, live music performed by students from the West Side school filled the air.